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Calangute, frequently known as the “Queen of Beaches”, is among the most famous and lively tourist spots in Goa. North Goa’s spirited beach town perfectly combines attractiveness, cultural eminence and dynamic nightlife. Several amazing places to visit in Calangute serve as a window into Goa’s rich history with its old churches, vibrant downtowns and charming art shops at its coastline. A perfect blend of tranquillity and thrill, Calangute is the ultimate Goan experience that you must explore in this charming coastal state.
10 Iconic Places To Visit In Calangute
Here is a top-picked list of the places to visit in Calangute that will help you make the most of your Calangute visit to Goa:
1. Calangute Beach
Photo: Anoop M S / Wikimedia Commons
Calangute Beach, popularly referred to as the “Queen of Beaches”, is the biggest and most powerful beach in North Goa. The beach has a lively spirit which proceeds with beautiful sands, active huts and a wide range of aquatic activities such as parasailing, motorcycling on the water, and windsurfing. This place serves as an oasis for relaxation as well as adventure. At this beach, one can bask under the sun, swim or just walk on the sandy land by the sea. You can also take delight in Goan foods and refreshing drinks served from the nearby small eateries.
Major Attractions: Water sports (parasailing, jet skiing, windsurfing), beach shacks and shopping at Calangute market
Best Time To Visit: November to February (cool and pleasant weather)
Entry Fees: Free ( excluding price for additional activities)
2. Kerkar Art Complex
Photo: Myotus / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Calangute Kerkar Art Complex acts as a centre for local Goan artists to exhibit their works. This collection consists of different forms such as paintings, sculptures and installations that illustrate the rich legacy of Goan art. Other than permanent displays of artworks, it hosts regular art exhibitions, workshops and cultural events. The calm garden surroundings make it possible to appreciate art works well. One should visit the Kerkar Art Complex if they are interested in Goan culture or love art, making it one of the best tourist attractions in Calangute.
Major Attractions: Permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations by local artists and regular art exhibitions and cultural events
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Entry Fees: Free (charges may apply for special exhibitions or workshops)
3. Reis Magos Fort
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
Reis Magos Fort, on the northern bank of Mandovi River, is one of the oldest and well-preserved forts in Goa. Built in 1551, it served as both a defence post and residence for Portuguese viceroys. It has been carefully refurbished to function as a cultural place where Goan history is displayed via exhibitions and art galleries. Its hard ramparts, antique cannon guns, and scenic view of the river and Arabian Sea attract a large number of visitors. Reis Magos Fort displays Goan colonial history amidst a peaceful ambience, being one of the amazing Calangute tourist places.
Major Attractions: Historical fort, architecture and rampart exhibitions on Goa’s history and culture and art galleries within the fort
Best Time To Visit: November to February (cool and pleasant weather)
Entry Fees: ₹50 for adults and ₹25 for children
4. Dolphin Spotting Tour
Photo: Rodrigo.Argenton / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dolphins’ spotting tours in Calangute provide an exhilarating chance to witness dolphins playing around them. The boat rides take visitors into the Arabian Sea, where it is common to find pods of dolphins. You can easily find the famous Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, jumping and swimming alongside the boats. Usually, these tours last about 1-2 hours under the guidance of experienced local operators. Tourists get knowledge on marine life from these operators who also ensure safety during the trip.
Major Attractions: Scenic boat ride along Goa’s coastline
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Entry Fees: ₹1,500 to ₹3,000 per person
5. Goa Chitra Museum
Photo: JosephAssisFernandes / Wikimedia Commons
The Goa Chitra Museum, one of the best tourist places in Calangute, is located in Benaulim, Goa. It is very popular with people who love culture. Victor Hugo Gomes is the founder of the museum and there are over 4000 things that are exhibited. These items include agricultural tools, vintage tools, and other artefacts that tell the story of rural life in Goa. It replicates a traditional Goan village where one can learn how people lived in Goa in the past. For all history geeks, this museum is a must-visit since it gives an amazing view of Goa’s past.
Major Attractions: Extensive collection of traditional Goan artefacts, replicas of a traditional Goan village, and vintage tools.
Best Time To Visit: November to February (cool and pleasant weather)
Entry Fees: ₹100 for adults and ₹50 for children (prices may vary)
5. Candolim Beach
Photo: Rupeshsarkar / Wikimedia Commons
Lying just north of Calangute is Candolim Beach, famous for being peaceful and less crowded than its neighbouring beaches. It has fine golden sand due to its soft texture and clear waves that allow one to bask in the sun. There are shacks on this beach that prepare delicious Goan dishes as well as chilled drinks. Here, being one of the best in Calangute tourist places list, you can do parasailing or jet ski rides too. Fort Aguada, located only nearby, allows visitors easy access to other places with thrilling activities. Candolim Beach offers quietness coupled with easy access to the northern beaches making it suitable for everyone.
Major Attractions: Less crowded beach environment, water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing
Best Time To Visit: November to February (pleasant weather and ideal beach conditions)
Entry Fees: Free (charges apply for water sports and beach activities)
6. St. Alex Church
Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
The grandeur of St. Alex Church, found in Calangute, is a satisfying illustration of Goan Roman Catholic architecture. Constructed in 1595, It displays an elaborate facade with complex and baroque-style interiors, one of the best places for Calangute trip. Stained glass windows provide a peaceful atmosphere and a magnificent altar. Furthermore, it is the mainstay of the community hosting religious events. St. Alex Church not only has historical importance but also displays great beauty in architecture. It has become one of the most tranquil places where you can learn more about Goan cultural and religious heritage.
Major Attractions: Classic Baroque architecture, ornate facade and intricately designed interior, beautiful stained glass windows
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Entry Fees: Free
7. Basilica Of Bom Jesus
Photo: Aviatorjk / Wikimedia Commons
The Basilica of Bom Jesus, situated in Old Goa, is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site that displays Baroque architecture. The basilica was established back in the year 1594 and it became popular for its breathtaking facade and an “overwhelming” interior. Among its greatest assets is the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier, a very influential missionary whose remains are kept in a silver casket. To adorn its majestic structure, the basilica has ornate altars with carvings done on wood and intricate paintings on walls. Due to its importance as a pilgrimage centre and historical architectural beauty; this captivates one’s attention towards the Goan past during colonial days.
Major Attractions: The tomb of St. Francis Xavier, housed in a silver casket, Stunning baroque architecture and intricate interior design
Best Time To Visit: November to February (cool and pleasant weather)
Entry Fees: Free
8. Tibetan Market
Photo: Biswarup Ganguly / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Calangute’s Tibetan Market is a colourful centre for unique shopping featuring a variety of Tibetan handicrafts, jewellery, clothes and souvenirs. Visitors can find complex silver jewellery, coloured prayer flags, traditional Thangka paintings and woollen items. Apart from that the market has several Tibetan accessories, bags and home decor. The liveliness of the market coupled with Tibetan workmanship gives visitors an experience away from their own culture in Goa where local charisma meets Tibetan creativity.
Major Attractions: Tibetan handicrafts, silver jewellery, Thangka paintings, prayer flags
Best Time To Visit: November to March (pleasant weather)
Entry Fees: Free
9. St. Anthony’s Chapel
Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Calangute’s St. Anthony’s Chapel is a tranquil place of worship that is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua. It’s a small structure built in a simple, elegant manner and is renowned for its peacefulness making it an ideal place for reflection and prayers. People find solace from the chaos of the town at the chapel where serenity reigns supreme. The whitewashed walls, simple designs, and peacefulness around create an ideal location for tourists. In addition to offering regular religious services conducted by the Catholic community, it has feast days held in honour of the saint.
Major Attractions: Simple architecture, peaceful atmosphere, religious significance
Best Time To Visit: November to February (pleasant weather)
Entry Fees: Free
If you are a history aficionado, nature enthusiast or just looking for a calm holiday, Calangute in Goa has everything for you. Visit Calangute today and learn about the rich history, bustling markets, serene chapels, historical landmarks and beautiful architecture. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags quickly and plan your trip with TripXL for a memorable experience.
Cover Photo: Fredericknoronha / Wikimedia Commons
